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Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

If you have blurry vision and thin corneas, you may not qualify for LASIK.

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is an effective alternative that produces quality results similar to LASIK.

See for yourself how the doctors at Cornea Associates of Texas expertly perform PRK for patients in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Plano, TX. 

How Does PRK Compare to LASIK? Differences in Treatment

Both PRK and LASIK are laser eye surgeries that correct refractive errors. Most patients can see clearly without contact lenses or glasses after undergoing either of the refractive surgeries. 
PRK

PRK

During a photorefractive keratectomy, an excimer laser is used to remove the outermost layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. Our eye surgeon then reshapes the remaining corneal tissue. A protective contact lens is placed in the eye to help with epithelial healing. The contact lens is removed a few days after the procedure and the epithelial layer will continue to grow back. This surgery takes longer to recover from than LASIK but provides similar vision correction results. PRK is a great alternative for patients who do not qualify for LASIK. 

LASIK

LASIK

In this refractive surgery, our doctors create a flap in the outermost layer of the cornea. This corneal flap is peeled back, allowing the laser to reshape the cornea. The corneal flap is closed after the procedure, eliminating the need for sutures. In the weeks following LASIK surgery, the corneal flap remains close and heals independently. Since the entire cornea is not removed, patients recover faster from LASIK than they recover from PRK. 

Candidates for PRK 

Photorefractive keratectomy surgery is a good alternative for people who need to correct refractive errors but do not qualify for LASIK.

People who are younger than 21, who are pregnant or nursing, or have a serious medical condition like uncontrolled diabetes or glaucoma are poor candidates for PRK. The eye doctors at our Dallas, TX, area centers will look to see if you have:

Thin Corneas

If your corneas are too thin, it can be too difficult to create a corneal flap, disqualifying patients from LASIK. A thin cornea is not an issue with PRK, as the outermost corneal layer is removed, allowing the doctor to reshape the underlying tissue. 

An Active Lifestyle

People who have physically active jobs or participate in sports are good candidates for PRK. Certain activities can increase your risk of dislodging your corneal flap. PRK is recommended for those who have an active lifestyle, minimizing their risk of corneal complications. 

Stable Eye Prescription 

Candidates for PRK need to have the same prescription eyeglasses or contacts for at least a year. The more stable your eyesight, the lower the need for a second refractive surgery procedure to fine-tune your vision correction results. 

Would You Like to Improve Your Vision?  Contact Cornea Associates of Texas Today

Our experienced surgeons can diagnose your eyes and determine if you're a candidate for PRK or LASIK. Our cornea experts in Dallas, TX, offer free consultations for patients who want to learn more about their eye health and the options they have to correct their vision. We offer financing and accept all major credit cards. 

With additional locations in Plano and Fort Worth, Cornea Associates of Texas serves patients in the greater Dallas area. People from Irving, University Park, Highland Park, and the surrounding area trust our doctors to correct their eyes through surgical and nonsurgical treatments.

Contact our centers through our website or call:

(214) 692-0146

Front Office

Top Reviews For our Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas, TX, Offices 

1

taran1900

2022

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My eye surgeon, Dr. Beebe has been terrific. The staff is also wonderful. Always friendly and professional. I highly recommend Dr. Beebe and Cornea Assoiciates of Texas.

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1

Jordan

2022

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I’ve had the best experience with the staff and Doctors. If you have any doubts about getting surgery this is the place to answer all your questions and concerns.

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Benefits of PRK 

Better Vision 

After PRK surgery, most patients achieve at least 20/40 vision and usually don't need contacts or glasses. 

Lasting Results

PRK results are permanent. However, patients may eventually need to use glasses for reading or at night as their vision naturally weakens with age. 

Effective LASIK Alternative

PRK can greatly improve vision for people who don't qualify for LASIK. While it has a longer recovery time than LASIK, PRK has many of the same benefits. 

PRK Treatment 

After a consultation at our Plano, Fort Worth, or Dallas, TX, offices, our eye doctors will determine if you're a candidate for LASIK or PRK. If you're approved for PRK surgery, here's what to expect:

Patients report feeling little to no pain after their surgery. 
Patients report feeling little to no pain after their surgery. 

Anesthesia

Anesthetic eye drops will be applied to numb your eyes. This should prevent or greatly reduce any pain you feel during the surgery. 

Placing the Speculum

A speculum and suction ring will be used to keep your eyes open during the procedure. 

Accessing the Cornea

Our eye surgeon will remove the epithelial layer of the cornea in order to access the underlying corneal tissue.

Reshaping the Cornea

An excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea and correct your refractive error.

Healing Contact Lens 

A healing contact is placed on the eye after using the excimer laser. The healing contact is worn for several days after the surgery, promoting corneal healing. 
Cornea Associates of Texas has locations in Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas. Our eye specialists serve people all over North Texas, including University Park, Highland Park, and Garland.

Recovering from PRK Surgery   How to Protect Your Eyes After Treatment

During your recovery time, it is important that you follow the directions given to you by your eye doctor. Patients can expect similar instructions after their eye surgery:

Avoid Touching Your Eyes

You may experience itchy or dry eyes after your procedure. Touching your eyes can cause infections and other complications. 

Protect Your Eyes

Patients should avoid sunlight and bright light so they don't squint or strain their eyes. Wear sunglasses when outside and protective eyewear to avoid eye injury. 

No Swimming

Pools, hot tubs, and bodies of water can cause infection during the healing process.

No Strenuous Exercise

Physical activity should be at a minimum for the first few days after your surgery. Contact sports should be suspended for a few weeks as well. 

Use Prescription Eye Drops

Dry eyes can be difficult to deal with after your treatment. Eye drops will help the healing process and keep your eyes lubricated. 

While some patients may notice an immediate change in their vision after PRK surgery, it can take up to six months for your eyes to completely stabilize. Most patients can resume daily activities within 24 hours of their PRK surgery. 

More Top Reviews  For Our Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas, TX, Offices 

1

Atallah Zitoon

2021

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They did great job. Dr. Zaffos was amazing. I was wearing glasses and now I don't I am extremely happy with the result. That's after different doctor at different clinic told me I can't get the advance lens and will have to wear glasses after surgery.

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1

LHS

2021

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Hearing you need cataract surgery may be unsettling. But Dr. Bowman and his staff guide you through everything from the diagnosis, setting up your surgical date, explaining what they are doing, and filling your insurance claim.

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Eye doctors at Cornea Associates of Texas

Cornea Associates of Texas

Cornea Associates of Texas provides superior eye care from offices in Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas, TX. Our doctors perform many surgical procedures, including LASIK surgery, PRK surgery, and cataract surgery. Our doctors are affiliated with several prestigious organizations, including:

  • The American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • The American Medical Association
  • The American Board of Ophthalmology
  • The International Society of Refractive Surgery

To schedule a consultation with our team, please fill out our online form or call (214) 692-0146.

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